Sambhal: The whitewashing of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has commenced following approval from the Allahabad High Court on March 12. The contractor assigned by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) overseeing the project stated that the work, which involves only exterior whitewashing and decoration with lights, is expected to be completed within a week. A team of eight workers has been tasked with the job.
The Allahabad High Court, while hearing the case on March 12, granted permission to whitewash the mosque’s exterior and decorate it with lights, provided that no alterations are made to the structure. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for April 8.
In light of the ongoing work, security in the area surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid has been increased. The court also appointed a three-member committee, consisting of ASI officials, a scientific expert, and a local administration representative, to ensure that the work is carried out without damaging the mosque’s structure.
Sambhal’s Assistant Superintendent of Police, Shrish Chandra, confirmed that tight security arrangements are in place, with an adequate police force deployed. Surveillance is being conducted using CCTV and drones to maintain peace in the area.
Earlier in February, the Uttar Pradesh police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) filed a chargesheet in connection with the violence that broke out on November 24 during an ASI examination of the mosque. The violence led to the deaths of four people and injuries to several others. According to the chargesheet, 80 individuals have been arrested, while 79 remain at large. The chargesheet also noted that weapons found at the site were manufactured in countries like the UK, USA, Germany, and Czechoslovakia.